Chicago IL – Feb. 8, 2018 – CDI Computer Dealers announced today it has partnered with littleBits to offer STEAM Coding Starter Kits for classrooms, makerspaces and libraries. The package includes two of littleBits’ best-selling kits – the STEAM Student Set and the Code Kit –plus two add-on packages that allow students to expand on the lessons by creating games or electronic music. CDI is showcasing the STEAM Coding Starter Kits this week at TCEA 2018 (booth 1922) in Austin.

The STEAM Student Set and the Code Kit are designed for students in grades three through eight and are aligned to Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and Common Core State Standards. They provide everything needed to launch a hands-on, successful STEAM (Science, Technology Engineering Arts and Math) program.

“Students learn by doing, and the littleBits STEAM Coding Starter Kits provide a great way to teach important STEAM skills through hands-on learning experiences,” said Glenn Collins, vice president of mobile computing at CDI. “Students learn through creating games and inventions, and even generating their own music. Our goal at CDI is to provide the tools and technology that schools need to be successful. Our partnership with littleBits provides an affordable way for organizations to launch a standards-aligned STEAM program that engages and excites students.”

littleBits kits are comprised of multiple electronic building blocks, or “Bits,” that snap together to create inventions and teach students about coding, circuits, music and more. Each CDI STEAM Coding Starter Kit includes:

A STEAM Student Set, which teaches engineering and design through hands-on inventing. It includes:

Eight challenges such as inventing a self-driving vehicle or an art machine. Additional challenges and inventions are available on the accompanying app.

19 Bits and 45 accessories.

A 72-page invention guidebook.

A Code Kit, which introduces coding to the classroom through creating and playing games. It includes:

Four games to invent and code such as “Ultimate Shootout and “Hot Potato..of Doom.” More are available in the accompanying app.

16 Bits and 30 accessories.

A computer-based app that provides tutorials, lessons and additional games.

16 inventions such as the Bitbot electronic rover and Prank Package, a box that opens on command to surprise bystanders. More are available in the app.

13 Bits and 56 accessories. such as ball coasters and mechanical arms

A Synth Kit, an extension kit that teaches students how to create their own instruments and electronic music. It includes:

Two inventions: Keytar, in which students create their own electronic instrument; and Synth Spin Table, which allows students to play their Synth Kit like a DJ. More inventions are available in the app.

CDI is the leading provider of technology-based solutions to the North American education market and has worked with over 10,000 schools and colleges. CDI delivers a powerful value proposition to budget-conscious institutions by providing new and recertified I.T. products and services at a significant discount along with the longest warranties in the industry. CDI’s product line includes PCs, Notebooks, Chromebooks, Tablets, Servers and Networking Equipment, 3D printers and classroom accessories. The company holds ISO 9001:2008 and ISO 14001:2004 certifications, and processes more than one million I.T. assets annually. Learn more at https://cdicomputers.com/education/.

About littleBits

littleBits empowers kids around the world to become inventors. Founded in 2011 by Ayah Bdeir, its innovative platform of easy-to-use electronic blocks allows anyone to create and prototype with electronics, independent of age, gender or technical ability. As the leader in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics) learning, littleBits believes in creating the conditions of invention by creating products that encourage self-directed exploration and problem solving; support grit and tenacity; and create a safe place to experience both failure and accomplishment. The company is dedicated to successfully bridging the gender gap with its gender-neutral platform, attracting an industry high thirty five percent of young girls to invent with littleBits. By embracing STEAM, both girls and boys can invent solutions to the problems that matter to them. The company’s products have won over 150 industry awards in the toy and education industries. littleBits is headquartered in New York. For more information and inspiration, go to www.littleBits.cc.